Kerala name change: MP John Brittas takes dig at Shashi Tharoor over Keralam remark, ‘Identity isn’t a spelling test’

In a lighthearted exchange, Kerala MP John Brittas responded to fellow politician Shashi Tharoor's remarks regarding the proposed name change of the state from Kerala to Keralam. Brittas emphasized that such a change would not alter the intrinsic identity of the Malayalee people. He pointed out that regardless of the name, the cultural and regional identity associated with the term 'Malayalee' would remain intact, suggesting that the name change is more about semantics than substance. This commentary comes amid ongoing discussions about the state's identity and the implications of linguistic changes in Indian states. Brittas's remarks reflect a broader sentiment that identity transcends mere spelling and nomenclature, resonating with many in the region who value their heritage and cultural continuity.